A comprehensive break down on what rigging testing achieves and why it is important.
Rigging, especially equipment used for lifting and safety, is required to go through an annual recertification process. This process ensures that the equipment is safe for continued use in the work environment. Rigging testing and rigging re-certification is often a good idea as well as required by CSA and ASME, meaning that this process is not optional. But no matter where you live, and if it is a requirement or not, knowing that your equipment will be reliable is important in running an effective business.
Rigging testing is a simple process that, once accounted into your operations, can increase your workplace safety and fit seamlessly into your operations. But you might ask, what is rigging testing? Well, Canyon Rigging has filmed the pull tests and break tests of a couple of our products and are here to explain.
What is rigging testing?
The process of rigging testing subjects a piece of rigging equipment to non-destructive tests to determine if it can handle the loads that it is rated for. Some of the most common tests used for rigging testing can include visual inspections and pull tests.
What is pull testing?
Pull testing is a specific kind of test conducted for a lot of rigging equipment. It utilizes a hydraulic testing machine and tests the equipment by pulling it to a proof load, thus ensuring that the equipment will handle its rated loads.
What is a visual inspection?
A visual inspection rigorously examines a piece of equipment to identify and diagnose potential issues related to the equipment you use. A visual inspection should be performed regularly by a designated person each shift and should be done before using any rigging equipment. In addition, trained specialists should annually inspect rigging equipment. Trained rigging specialists frequently have extensive and overlapping expertise. This broad knowledge base enables them to detect potential failure points and areas with compromised structural integrity that would otherwise be missed. Canyon Rigging offers this service and can even repair or replace equipment that is damaged.
What is a break test?
Break tests are a destructive form of rigging testing. Break testing is performed by putting a continuous load on the product until it breaks. This kind of test is perfect for establishing break strength, identifying failure points, testing equipment batches before sale, and more. They are a more specialized type of test, but is incredibly useful.
Did you know! Canyon Rigging can do break tests. Check out this video of us breaking some of our Personal Anchor Slings.
Conclusion
Rigging testing is one of the most important habits of any good business. Not only is required, it keeps your equipment in good working order, ensures that your equipment is safe, and keeps your workplace working.
If you need your rigging tested, check out our Rigging Certification page.
Additional Reading and References:
Crane & Hoist Rigging Requirements – Know The Laws of Your Province – OHS Insider
The Difference Between Proof Testing and Break Testing — and When Each Is Required – CERTEX USA
